THROGGS NECK, N.Y. (Feb. 11, 2014) – During the week leading up to Super Bowl XLVIII, hosted by New York and New Jersey, Maritime football defensive coordinator Vincent DiGaetano volunteered his time to work the festivities around Super Bowl Blvd. in Manhattan. He was also present at a field dedication ceremony at Boys and Girls High School along with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

"Growing up in New York I took great pride in the ability to contribute to Super Bowl XVLIII while continually messaging the work of Heads Up football in making a better, safer game," said DiGaetano.

DiGaetano was on hand to open up Super Bowl Blvd. in New York's Times Square on Wednesday evening, Jan. 29. He was giving presentations and demonstrations at the USA Football "HeadsUp Football" portion of the NFL's Play 60 station along with helping out with the fan ball pit. He spent time with current NFL Players Osi Umenuria of the Atlanta Falcons, Nick Mangold of the New York Jets, Rashard Jennings of the Oakland Raiders and former Division III football player Pierre Garçon of the Washington Redskins to name a few.

On Thursday, the scene shifted to Brooklyn at Boys and Girls High School, where Roger Goodell, Jets' Owner Woody Johnson, Giants' Treasurer Jonathan Tisch and a number of NFL players were on hand to unveil the school's new football field. The Super Bowl Legacy Grant provided funding for the resurfacing of the field, including replacing all turf, goal posts and soccer goals. The field will be used by students as well as the surrounding community.

On Friday, DiGaetano volunteered for the NY/NJ Host Committee in Herald Square. He assisted by answering Super Bowl questions. He wrapped up his volunteer work on Saturday back at Super Bowl Blvd., giving more presentations and demonstrations for HeadsUp Football.

"Coach DiGaetano was in his typical full overdrive tempo for Super Bowl Week and made the most of this opportunity to engage the community and help promote a better, safer game, said Maritime football head coach Clayton Kendrick-Holmes. "HeadsUp Football is fortunate to have coaches like Vinny and the backing of the NFL to help with this important initiative."